Forensic Supervisor

Definition

Under direction, plans, directs and supervises the operations of Forensics section of the Police Department; performs the full range of complex and technical crime scene investigation duties to include testifying as an expert witness in the presentation of courtroom evidence; and performs related work as required.

Distinguishing Characteristics

Distinguished from the Police Sergeant or Police Lieutenant in that the incumbent is non-sworn and are primarily responsible for oversight of the Forensics section of the Department. Distinguished from the Senior Forensic Identification Specialist in that the incumbent has primary responsibility for the oversight of the Forensics section of the Department. Incumbents are fully qualified technical specialists who are primarily responsible for supervising the field and laboratory activities of employees in the section, but do assist employees in complex or difficult work. Incumbents perform a full range of complex tasks and work under direction within a framework of established procedures. Work is judged primarily on overall results with latitude in determining work methods and assignment requirements. Work may require the development of recommendations consistent with directives, policies and regulations.

Assists with functions performed by line staff as necessary to maintain adequate service levels;

Participates in the development of related goals, objectives, policies, and procedures;

Implements and maintains operational procedures consistent with established practices and Government/Penal Code requirements;

Develops and implements training programs for assigned personnel and oversees training of new staff;

Institutes procedures to ensure accuracy; modifies or recommends modifications to systems or processes to improve accuracy and efficiency;

Monitors and participates in the lifting, identifying and preserving of fingerprints, the collection of physical evidence utilizing a variety of technical and chemical processes, and the rolling, classifying and comparing of fingerprints;

Oversees the classification of fingerprint data using the CAL ID System and other automated fingerprint identification systems (AFIS);

Organizes and facilitates the input and retrieval of latent fingerprints in the CAL ID and other AFIS's for the City and participating jurisdictions;

Prepares written reports related to the Forensic Section;

Serves as the liaison between the Police Department and other law enforcement and judicial agencies as it relates to forensic identification;

Monitors the use and purchase of supplies;

Prepares budget requests and recommendations;

Keeps abreast of and evaluates the latest advancements in the field of forensic operations;

Presents results of forensic investigations of criminal cases in court, when required;

Research case projects and evaluate new forensic techniques and procedures;

Work in a team environment and provide specialized knowledge and advice to investigators;

Communicate effectively with a wide variety of individuals;

Make effective oral presentations and conduct training sessions;

Establish and maintain effective working relationships with City staff, other agencies, elected officials, community representatives, public and volunteers.

License and Certification

Must possess a valid State of California driver's license of the appropriate class.

Education and Experience

Any combination of education and experience that provides the required knowledge and skills is qualifying. A typical way of obtaining the necessary knowledge and abilities is:

Graduation from an accredited college with a Bachelor's degree in criminalistics, police science, or a related field and; three years paid experience as a Forensic Identification Specialist or the equivalent at an accredited forensic laboratory, or law enforcement agency, participating in site investigations and laboratory analysis including two years working in a lead or supervisory capacity. Experience may be substituted for the required education on a year-for-year basis to a maximum of four years experience.

Special Requirements

Performance of the essential duties of this position includes the following physical demands and/or working conditions:

Work is performed in an office, laboratory, and in outside weather conditions, with exposure to hazardous conditions. In the event of an emergency, may on occasion be exposed to blood and other body fluids and adverse conditions for an extended period of time.

May be required to travel to a variety of off-site locations and be available to respond during off duty hours.